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Phalaenopsis orchids, commonly known as "moth orchids," are popular and relatively easy-to-care-for houseplants that can provide long-lasting, exotic blooms.
Here's a comprehensive guide care for phalaenopsis :
1. Light:
Bright, indirect light is key. An east-facing window is often ideal. Shaded south or west-facing windows can also work.
Avoid direct summer sun, as it can scorch the leaves.
Signs of too much/too little light:
Dark green leaves: Not enough light.
Red-tinged or yellowish-green leaves: Too much light.
They can also thrive under artificial grow lights (fluorescent tubes or LEDs, about 12-24 inches above the plant).
2. Watering:
Correct watering is crucial. Overwatering leads to root rot, while underwatering can shrivel roots.
Water weekly throughout the growing season, reducing slightly in winter.
Check the roots: Phalaenopsis roots in clear pots will turn silvery-white when they need water and bright green when wet. Don't rely solely on aerial roots for this.
Thoroughly water: Place the pot in a sink or tub and run room-temperature water over the plant (roots and bark) until it drains completely. Do not let the plant sit in standing water.
Use tepid water, preferably rainwater or distilled water. Avoid softened water.
Avoid getting water in the crown (where the leaves meet at the base) to prevent rot. If you do, gently blot it dry.
3. Potting Medium & Repotting:
Always use a specially formulated bark-based orchid compost or a mix of bark and sphagnum moss. Never use regular potting soil, as it will kill them.
Clear pots are beneficial as they allow you to see the roots and monitor moisture levels.
Repot every one to two years, or when the plant becomes too large for its container, the potting mix breaks down (becomes dense and holds too much water), or if you see white mold (snow mold) on the roots.
When repotting:
Gently remove the old compost.
Snip off any unhealthy or dead roots (brown, shriveled, mushy, or hollow).
Choose a pot that's appropriately sized; orchids prefer to be a bit root-bound rather than in an oversized pot.
Pack the new medium loosely to ensure good air circulation around the roots.
4. Temperature and Humidity:
Temperatures:
Daytime: 19-30°C (66-86°F) is ideal. They adapt well to normal indoor temperatures of 18-21°C (65-70°F).
Nighttime: 16-19°C (61-66°F). A few weeks of cooler night temperatures (around 12-13°C or 55°F) in autumn can encourage flowering.
Humidity:
They prefer 50-80% humidity, but can adapt to less humid home environments (above 40% is good).
To increase humidity, you can place the pot on a saucer filled with pebbles and water (ensure the pot isn't sitting directly in the water). Misting the foliage and aerial roots lightly in summer can also help.
Good air circulation is essential to prevent fungal and bacterial diseases, especially in higher humidity. Keep them away from draughts.
5. Fertilizing:
Feed lightly but regularly during the growing season (spring and summer) using a specific orchid fertilizer.
A balanced fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20 NPK) at 1/4 strength every 2-4 weeks is often recommended.
When flowering is desired, a high-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., 10-30-20) can promote blooming.
Flush out salt build-up by watering without fertilizer every fourth watering.
Do not fertilize a completely dry orchid.
6. Pruning:
After flowering:
You can cut the spent flower stalk just above the second node (joint) below the last flower. A new flower shoot may emerge from this node.
Alternatively, you can cut the entire stem off at the base if it turns pale and dry, allowing the plant to conserve energy for future blooms.
Remove old, fading leaves to keep the plant healthy and tidy.
Always disinfect pruning shears before use to prevent the spread of diseases.
7. General Tips:
Wipe leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust.
Rotate your orchid from time to time to ensure even growth and light exposure.
Don't worry if flowers drop. Healthy Phalaenopsis orchids can rebloom every year.
Be patient! Orchids have their own growth cycles.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your beautiful Phalaenopsis orchid for many years
